Thread: Signed a lease...found roach infestation later that night.

So I signed a lease to rent a condo, and when I went back later that night to take measurements for the refrigerator space, I walked in to find a pretty bad roach infestation. I took pictures and video. I have not moved any of my stuff in...what are my options? I do not want to move in anymore.

read the lease, fine print that needs a magnifying glass, and all the legaleese. you may have some recourse, but at best, the leaser will be obligated to treat the infestation. And it will take several treatments over the course of a couple or so weeks. Either way, you may be obligated to pay the lease regardless.

If it is truly infested you could argue that it is uninhabitable, but I doubt that would be grounds to terminate. You can be reimbursed rent for each day until it is rectified. Have the landlord treat the issue and honor your commitment. Exterminators have amazing products these days.

the bigger problem is if your infested so are your neighbors. unless they treat anyone connected to you its a temporary fix

Originally Posted by SuxBeingU

the bigger problem is if your infested so are your neighbors. unless they treat anyone connected to you its a temporary fix

That's one of the things certain Condo HOA's are good bad for. Some manage the entire building and have guidelines for treatment. You'd have to check through the CC&R's about it though.

Also if I'm not mistaken you have like 7-10 days to report hidden damage to the owner, which you absolutely should, but as long as the problem is correctable I don't think you can get out of the lease outright. Just continue to document it.

do what the chinese would do - fry 'em for extra protein!

I don't know what county you live in, but I know Orange County has a renter's rights organization. See if there is one in your area, and contact them to find out your options. You may be able to get out of the lease by claiming an undisclosed problem that makes the unit untenable. Good luck!